Straightening a Leaning Pine Tree After Storm Damage

A 12-foot pine leaning 15 degrees with exposed roots can often be saved if acted upon quickly. Follow these steps:

Step-by-Step

1. Dig a cavity under the raised root ball to allow it to settle back into place.
2. Attach a heavy rope to the trunk halfway up and to a vehicle’s trailer hitch.
3. Gently pull the tree upright. The root ball should sink back to its original depth.
4. Stake with two stakes (5–10 feet apart) using wide, flexible material like an old bicycle inner tube around the trunk to prevent bark damage.
5. Leave stakes for one year until roots re-establish anchorage.

Important Tips

• Never wrap wire, cable, or rope directly around the trunk—even with padding, it causes girdling as the tree sways.
• Water regularly during the recovery period.

With proper staking and time, the tree can fully recover.